Is Matilda Worth Watching?
Answer: Maybe not, Matilda is likely a skip if you enjoy Comedy movies.
It features a runtime of 105 minutes and offers a standard storyline that appeals to mature audiences.
Matilda Review
Last updated: January 18, 2026
Detailed Premise & Narrative Foundations
Released in the dynamic cinematic landscape of 1978, Matilda emerges as a significant entry in the Comedy, Crime, Family domain. The narrative core of the film focuses on a sophisticated exploration of A small-time talent agent discovers an amazing boxing kangaroo and figures to use it as his stepping-stone into the big time. Unlike standard genre fare, Matilda attempts to deconstruct traditional tropes, offering a conventional take on its central themes.
Cast Performances: A Masterclass
The success of any Comedy is often anchored by its ensemble, and Matilda features a noteworthy lineup led by Elliott Gould . Supported by the likes of Clive Revill and Harry Guardino , the performances bring a palpable realism to the scripted words.
Performance Analysis: While the cast delivers competent and professional performances, they are occasionally hampered by a script that leans into familiar archetypes.
Final Verdict: Is it Worth Watching?
In summary, our editorial assessment of Matilda (1978) is mixed. With an audience rating of 5.2/10, it stands as a highly recommended experience for genre enthusiasts.
Matilda Plot Summary & Detailed Storyline
Quick Plot Summary: Matilda is a Comedy, Crime, Family film that brings laughter through clever writing and comedic timing, offering both entertainment and social commentary. This summary provides a scannable look at the movie's central conflict and narrative structure.
Matilda Ending Explained & Final Analysis
Ending Breakdown: Matilda attempts to tie together its various plot elements. The finale presents its approach to comedy resolution.
The conclusion addresses the core thematic questions, offering viewers material for post-viewing discussion.
Ending Analysis:
- Narrative Resolution: The story concludes by addressing its primary narrative threads, providing closure while maintaining some ambiguity.
- Character Arcs: Character journeys reach their narrative endpoints, reflecting the film's thematic priorities.
- Thematic Payoff: The ending reinforces the comedy themes established throughout the runtime.
The final moments of Matilda reflect the filmmakers' creative choices, offering an ending that aligns with the film's tone and style.
Matilda Real vs. Reel: Is it Based on a True Story?
Matilda incorporates elements from real criminal cases. As a comedy, crime, family film, it navigates the space between factual accuracy and narrative engagement.
Historical Context
The film takes creative liberties to enhance dramatic impact. Core events maintain connection to source material while adapting for theatrical presentation.
Creative interpretation shapes the final narrative, focusing on emotional truth over strict chronology.
Accuracy Assessment: Matilda adapts its source material for dramatic purposes. The film prioritizes thematic resonance over documentary precision.
Who Should Watch Matilda?
Consider Watching If:
- You're a completist for Comedy films
- You're curious despite mixed reviews
- You have low expectations and want casual entertainment
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Full Cast & Crew of Matilda
- Elliott Gould – Bernie Bonnelli
- Clive Revill – Billy Baker
- Harry Guardino – Uncle Nono
- Roy Clark – Wild Bill Wildman
- Karen Carlson – Kathleen Smith
Top Highlights
Elliott GouldBernie Bonnelli
Clive RevillBilly Baker
Harry GuardinoUncle Nono
Roy ClarkWild Bill Wildman
Karen CarlsonKathleen Smith
Art MetranoGordon Baum
Lionel StanderPinky Schwab
Roberta CollinsTanya Six
Larry PennellLee Dockerty
Gary MorganMatilda
Where to Watch Matilda Online?
Streaming Hub📺 Stream on
Shout! Factory Amazon ChannelParents Guide & Age Rating
Matilda is rated G. Parents should be aware that it contains mature themes, violence.
Final Verdict
Analyzing the audience sentiment, IMDb rating of 5.2/10, and global collection metrics, Matilda stands as a challenging project for the creators. It remains an essential piece of the 1978 cinematic year.
Official Trailer
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Matilda movie hit or flop?
Matilda has received mixed reviews with a 5.2/10 rating, making it a moderate success with the audience.
Is Matilda worth watching?
Matilda is a mixed bag. It might be worth watching if you're a fan of Comedy, Crime, Family movies, but read reviews first.
Where can I watch Matilda online?
Matilda is currently available for streaming on Shout! Factory Amazon Channel. You can also check for it on platforms like Shout! Factory Amazon Channel depending on your region.
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How Matilda Compares & Where it Ranks
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This analysis is compiled by our editorial experts using multi-source verification and audience sentiment data for maximum accuracy.
Useful Links
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